2018 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · AF68 XGC

The most recent MOT test conducted on 15 October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle has entered a period of increasing advisories regarding tyre condition. While the 2024 inspection was entirely clean, the subsequent test highlights a recurring issue with tyre wear and degradation. The maintenance trend suggests that while the vehicle is structurally sound and meets minimum legal standards, the management of consumables like tyres has become a point of concern, moving from edge wear on the front tyres in 2023 to low tread and perishing rubber on the rear tyres in 2025. With a recorded mileage of 37,176 over approximately eight years, this Ford Transit Connect has averaged roughly 4,647 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the typical annual mileage for a commercial vehicle of this type. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain, it also suggests the vehicle may have spent extended periods stationary. Such usage patterns carry specific risks, including the degradation of rubber components, the settling of fluids, and the potential for corrosion on braking surfaces that are not regularly scrubbed clean by frequent driving. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the tyre condition, as the recent advisories for both low tread and perishing rubber indicate that the tyres are reaching the end of their serviceable life due to age rather than just mileage. During a test drive, inspect the sidewalls for fine cracks or perishing, which can lead to sudden failure, and check for any uneven tread wear that might suggest alignment or suspension bush issues. You should also listen for any clunks or knocks from the suspension, as rubber bushes can perish and harden when a vehicle sits idle for long periods, even if the mileage remains low. Given the low annual usage, it is vital to verify the service history to ensure that oil and other essential fluids have been changed on a calendar basis rather than solely on mileage intervals, as fluids degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and check for any signs of binding calipers, which is common in vehicles that stand frequently. Additionally, test the 12V battery health and check for any signs of age-related degradation in the belt system or hoses. Ensuring the vehicle has had regular, time-based maintenance will be key to confirming its long-term reliability.